Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! Let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite recipes: Apricot Chicken. This dish is incredibly easy to whip up, yet it looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this for a dinner party; I was a little nervous, but as soon as everyone took a bite, the room burst into compliments, and it quickly became a staple in my meal rotation.
What I love about Apricot Chicken is how effortlessly it brings together sweet and savory flavors. The contrast of the succulent chicken thighs with the tangy apricot preserves is just heavenly. Plus, it’s baked in one skillet, which means fewer dishes to do later (and we all know how important that is!). So, let’s dive into the details of making this delightful dish!
What’s in Apricot Chicken?
Chicken Thighs: These are the star of the show! I love using bone-in, skin-on thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process. Plus, that crispy skin? Total game changer!
Apricot Preserves: This is where the magic happens! The preserves add a sweet and sticky glaze that complements the chicken perfectly. You can find great options at the grocery store, but homemade is always an option if you’re feeling adventurous.
Soy Sauce: A touch of soy sauce brings in some umami and balances the sweetness of the apricot preserves. I lean towards low-sodium soy sauce to keep it healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Dijon Mustard: A splash of Dijon mustard adds a sharp and tangy note that elevates the dish. I like to use a quality brand, as it really makes a difference!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must for that aromatic base that adds depth to the dish. Just one clove will do!
Ground Black Pepper: A little pepper for warmth; just enough to round out the flavors without overpowering the other ingredients.
Onion Powder: This gives an extra layer of flavor without needing a whole onion. Such a time-saver!
Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken thighs, bringing out their rich flavor and adding a nice crispiness to the skin.
Cooked White Rice: This is how you’ll serve your apricot chicken! The rice acts as a lovely base to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Chopped Fresh Parsley: Not just for looks; this fresh garnish adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the plate.
Is Apricot Chicken Good for You?
You bet it is! Let’s break it down a little:
Chicken Thighs: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, chicken thighs provide a satisfying meal option. Plus, they have more flavor than chicken breasts, which is always a win in my book!
Apricot Preserves: Apricots are a great source of vitamins A and C, plus potassium and fiber (especially if you can find some fruit-forward preserves!). Just be aware of the sugar content, as some brands can be quite sweet.
Dijon Mustard: Contains antioxidants and can be lower in calories than other condiment options like mayonnaise. A little goes a long way!
The only consideration I’d have is the sodium content from the soy sauce. If you’re watching your intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce and perhaps reduce the quantity a tad.
Ingredients List
– 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
– 1 cup apricot preserves
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup mustard (preferably Dijon)
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Cooked white rice (for serving)
– Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Apricot Chicken?
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Trust me, that little bit of heat will make all the difference!
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the apricot preserves, soy sauce, mustard, minced garlic, black pepper, and onion powder until you have a gorgeous, cohesive mix.
3. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin-side down, and sear them until the skin is golden and crispy (around 5-7 minutes).
4. Flip those beauties over and pour the apricot mixture over the top. Spoil them with that glaze!
5. Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You want that sauce to be bubbly and delectable!
6. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes (if you can wait!).
7. Serve the apricot chicken over a bed of cooked white rice, spooning that delicious extra sauce from the skillet on top. Don’t forget the chopped parsley to make it pop!
A little tip from me? If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some veggies like broccoli or snap peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a complete one-pan meal!
Life is too short for boring dinners, my friends. I hope you try this Apricot Chicken and experience the joy it brings to the table like I have. Each bite is a sweet reminder of all the delicious moments we create around the dinner table. So, grab that skillet and get cooking. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!
